
Secretly Incredibly Fascinating
A weekly podcast about the history, science, lore and surprises that make everyday things secretly incredibly fascinating. Hosted by comedy writer, emoji creator, and ‘Jeopardy!‘ champion Alex Schmidt. Join Alex & his co-host Katie Goldin for a joyful deep dive into seeing the world a whole new way! (For research sources, bonus episodes, and how you can support the podcast, visit sifpod.fun.)
Latest episodes

4 snips
Sep 30, 2024 • 1h
Renaissance Faires
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why Renaissance faires are secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5

11 snips
Sep 23, 2024 • 1h 2min
Pachelbel's Canon
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why Pachelbel's Canon is secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5

24 snips
Sep 16, 2024 • 1h 9min
Salt Mines
Join Jason Pargin, author and host of Big Feats, as he dives into the fascinating world of salt mines with Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin. They uncover the surprising humor in salt’s history, from ancient mining techniques to the cultural significance of Himalayan pink salt. Amusing anecdotes and historical insights reveal salt's vital roles in health and food preservation. The trio also discusses intriguing mummies found in mines and the modern allure of salt products, making this exploration of salt both educational and entertaining.

17 snips
Sep 9, 2024 • 1h 8min
U.S. Minor Outlying Islands
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why the United States Minor Outlying Islands are secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5

10 snips
Sep 2, 2024 • 1h 7min
Penny-Farthings
Discover the whimsical world of penny-farthing bicycles! Explore their historical significance and the comical challenges of riding these high-seated wonders. Delve into their unique design, juxtaposed with modern cycling trends, and uncover their surprising ties to the women's liberation movement. The podcast balances humor with intriguing anecdotes, revealing how these vintage bikes reflect societal changes while showcasing Victorian-era innovations. Join in on the fun and appreciate the charm that makes penny-farthings so captivating!

7 snips
Aug 26, 2024 • 1h 2min
Homework
Delve into the hidden complexities of homework and its reputation through humorous insights. Explore the stress it induces in students and the disparities it creates in education. Discover parent-led movements against weekend assignments in Spain, aiming to reclaim family time. Contrast Finland’s minimal homework with other nations for intriguing educational outcomes. Laugh at the classic excuse of dogs eating homework while uncovering its cultural significance.

14 snips
Aug 19, 2024 • 1h
Popcorn Ceilings
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why popcorn ceilings are secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5

9 snips
Aug 12, 2024 • 1h 6min
Euros
Alex Schmidt, Katie Goldin, and special guests Jeremy Bent and Dimitry Pompée explore why the euro currency is secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5

11 snips
Aug 5, 2024 • 1h 10min
The Letter Q
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why the letter Q is secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5

9 snips
Jul 29, 2024 • 1h 5min
Figs!
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why figs (aka "wasp piñatas") are secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5(Alex’s old podcast hosting service required a minimum of 5 characters per episode title, and he's keeping that going for fun. So that’s why this episode’s title has an exclamation point)
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